Course Description:
This course covers the fundamental tools and concepts for managing Linux operating systems, focusing on proficient use of the command line through extensive hands-on experience. From pre-installation to security auditing, this course gives the students a comprehensive, in-depth explanation of Linux administrative skills and techniques as well as best practices in Linux administration. Students will explore installation, security hardening, configuration and maintenance of a Linux server operating system. Also, students learn essential security strategies that IT professionals need in order to better protect networks. Additionally, students will explore the installation and configuration of two common server applications, such as a Web server and a mail server.
Course Goal:
The goal of this course is to introduce students to the operations and administration of the Linux operating system and for them to gain day-to-day skills that IT professionals require using this operating system.
Course Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Discuss options for installing and configuring Linux on a computer and options available for obtaining and installing additional software packages such as word processors and web browsers on Linux systems.
- Describe the difference between a Command Line Interface (CLI) and a Graphical User Interface (GUI) and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of both. Also, discuss the purpose of and differences between common Window Manager packages such as KDE and GNOME.
- Demonstrate the use of one of the commonly available text editors on Unix-based systems, such as the “Vim” editor.
- Discuss the purpose of a “shell” program and demonstrate the use of common commands to manipulate files and system options.
- Explain how to configure Linux using both graphical tools and text based configuration files. Also, discuss methods to troubleshoot problems and optimize performance.
- Explore the installation and configuration of some server applications such as a Web server and/or a Mail server.
- Gain practical skills to operate and administer a Linux based operating system for day-to-day tasks.